NIGHT OF THE ANIMALS

This is an extraordinary audiobook, and Ralph Lister's narration is splendid. Lister seamlessly gives talking sand cats and hissing jackals persuasive vocalizations and nuanced speech. He does spot-on British accents in this futuristic reimagining of Noah's Arc. Bill Broun's fascinating novel takes place in 2052 London, portraying a dystopian future in which humans have killed off nearly all wildlife. This audiobook follows the trials and exploits of Cuthbert Handley, an addled 90-year-old antihero who can talk with animals and sets out to free the last survivors from the London Zoo--the sole remaining zoo in the world. Lister is a vocal chameleon, equally adroit with dozens of voices. His talent is well displayed in this immersive and haunting tale. A.D.M. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2016]